Called out of retirement, Allyson Felix helps 4x400 women's relay into final at world championships

EUGENE, Ore. — Enjoying retired life, Allyson Felix was eating hot wings and sipping on a root beer float in Los Angeles when the phone rang.

She was needed back in Oregon for the prelims of the 4x400 women's relay. Could she return to world championships? She was on her way.

The most decorated sprinter in U.S. history jumped on a plane and was on the track Saturday night for the «last» time to help the Americans advance to the final.

And back into retirement she goes. She said she will watch the final of the women's 4x400 on Sunday from the seats.

That's the plan — for now. She did have the fastest one-lap split of her teammates as the U.S. posted the fastest qualifying time of 3 minutes, 23.38 seconds.

«From what I know,» the 36-year-old Felix said of whether this is really the end. «But you know, what do I know?»

Last Friday, she went through an emotional send-off after helping the 4x400 mixed relay team to a bronze medal. That was supposed to be it.

She went back to Los Angeles for the ESPY Awards and was a few hot wings in when she was summoned to the track for an encore performance.

Talitha Diggs ran the opening leg for the U.S. before handing off to Felix. She powered around the track and gave the baton to Kaylin Whitney, the sprinter who grew up idolizing Felix. Jaide Stepter Baynes brought it home.

«It's kind of coming full circle, literally,» Whitney said of passing the baton to Felix. «To be able to run alongside her, as well as these other great ladies, is always a privilege. I can't be happier.»

Soon after her run, Felix crouched down by the scoreboard and then sat on the grass to watch. When it was over, she hugged her teammates.

«I was well on my way (to retirement),» said Felix, who had her Saysh spikes —